One could speculate that AWE's objective is to maximise the...

One could speculate that AWE's objective is to maximise the experience it learns on the Texas shale fields so that it can leverage that in Australia.

There is still an opportunity for AWE to succeed. If the world economic situation continues to deteriorate over the next couple of weeks and the oil price continues its downward trajectory then ADI becomes more speculative and one might be tempted to accept their offer.

Wont be left holding the again!